Fall in Western North Carolina is more than just a season—it’s a full sensory experience. Vibrant foliage, crisp mountain air, and a packed lineup of events create the perfect escape for travelers and locals alike. Following the community’s recovery from Hurricane Helene, this year is especially meaningful. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or looking for family-friendly fun, these WNC fall festivals and apple orchards are must-visits.

Top Fall Festivals in WNC (2025)

NC Apple Festival – Labor Day Weekend (Aug 29–Sept 1) — Downtown Hendersonville
A signature event for Western North Carolina, this four-day festival draws thousands to celebrate the region’s apple heritage. Expect a parade, live music, fresh apple treats, and over 200 vendors.
https://www.ncapplefestival.org

Goombay Festival (Sept 5–7) — Pack Square Park, Asheville
A dynamic celebration of African and Caribbean culture with food, music, art, and dance.
https://www.ashevilledowntown.org

Punch Bucket Literary Festival (Sept 19–20) — Asheville
A must-attend for book lovers. Features readings, author panels, and a bustling book fair.
https://www.exploreasheville.com

Blue Ridge Pride Festival (Sept 27) — Asheville
Celebrate inclusion and diversity with entertainment, community resources, and family fun.
https://www.blueridgepride.org

Burnpile Music & Beer Festival (Oct 4) — Forest Camp, Asheville
A fusion of craft beer and live music, curated by Burial Beer Co.
https://www.burnpileavl.com

Lovely Asheville Fall Festival (Oct 11–12) — Pack Square Park
Art, food, poetry, and music unite in this multi-day autumn celebration.
https://www.ashevilledowntown.org

LEAF Global Arts Festival (Oct 16–19) — Lake Eden, Black Mountain
An international celebration of music, arts, and community in a scenic lakeside setting.
https://www.theleaf.org

Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival (Oct 10–12) — Cashiers
A juried arts and crafts event set against peak fall foliage.
https://www.villagegreencashiersnc.com

Waynesville Apple Harvest Festival (Oct 19) — Downtown Waynesville
Live music, street food, and fresh apples in the heart of the Smokies.
https://www.downtownwaynesville.com/apple-harvest-festival

John C. Campbell Folk School Fall Festival (Oct 4–5) — Brasstown
An Appalachian tradition featuring crafts, music, dance, and regional foods.
https://www.folkschool.org

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Best Apple Orchards in Western North Carolina

Celebrate fall with a trip to one of WNC’s iconic apple orchards. Many offer U-pick experiences, cider tastings, and family-friendly activities:

Sky Top Orchard — Flat Rock, NC
Stunning views, U-pick apples, farm animals, hayrides, and cider donuts.
https://www.skytoporchard.com

Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard — Hendersonville, NC
Family-owned with 26 varieties of apples, corn maze, apple cannons, and more.
https://steppapples.com

Jeter Mountain Farm — Hendersonville, NC
Gorgeous U-pick orchard with fresh-pressed cider, BBQ, and indoor play barn.
https://www.jetermountainfarm.com

Justus Orchard — Hendersonville, NC
Pick your own apples and blackberries, plus enjoy bakery treats and hard cider.
https://www.justusorchard.com

Grandad’s Apples — Hendersonville, NC
A 100-acre farm with U-pick apples, farm market, bakery, and corn maze.
https://www.grandadsapples.com

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Where to Celebrate Oktoberfest in WNC

Oktoberfest events in Western North Carolina mix mountain charm with Bavarian tradition:

Asheville Oktoberfest (Oct 4) — Pack Square Park
Free event with German food, local breweries, stein-holding contests, and polka.
https://www.ashevilledowntown.org

Sugar Mountain Oktoberfest (Oct 11–12) — Sugar Mountain Resort
Lively music, beer tents, authentic German fare, and chairlift rides.
https://oktoberfest.skisugar.com

Hillman Beer Oktoberfest — Asheville
Seasonal beer releases, Das Oompapas band, and a festive local crowd.
https://www.hillmanbeer.com

Oktoberfest Half Marathon & 5K (Sept 27) — Asheville
Race through scenic Asheville and finish with a celebratory local brew.
https://oktoberfesthalfmarathon.com

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Plan Your Fall Getaway to Western North Carolina

Western North Carolina’s fall season is packed with unforgettable experiences:

• Travel Tip: Peak fall color varies by elevation—early October in the high country, mid to late October in valleys.
• Tourism Impact: Visiting local festivals supports small businesses and the region’s economic recovery after Helene.
• Family Fun: Combine apple picking with a fall festival for the ultimate day trip.

Looking for mountain air, live music, and hot cider? Pack your flannel—WNC is ready to welcome you back this fall.

Explore More Fall Events:
https://www.exploreasheville.com
https://www.romanticasheville.com/fall.htm